Pool Maintenance - A Pool Owner's Checklist

Correct maintenance for swimming pools may seem easy for the experts, but for the average homeowner trying to keep up with everything on their own, a checklist can serve as a great tool to stay organized and keep the pool in order. Keeping up with maintenance can prevent many problems in the future and ensure a safe pool to enjoy all season long.

Here are a few things to add to your pool checklist:

There are many common maintenance mistakes that pool owners make, especially in regards to checking the chemicals. Pools should be checked for the correct chemical balances twice a week during the summer and once a week during the winter, but most pool owners do not do this nearly often enough. Making minor adjustments weekly will ensure chemical levels don't have periods of major unbalance, which can be unsafe for those using the pool and can even lead to damage of certain pool components.

pH levels should never exceed 8.0, as this would cause the chlorine to be less active; levels of about 7.5 are ideal and make chlorine about fifty to sixty percent active. Having the correct pH will allow the chlorine to be more effective.

Alkalinity levels should be between 80 and 140 PPM. Low or high levels can affect water balance and can hinder the sanitizer.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) should also be checked regularly. Calcium hardness should be checked every month, while overall TDS about every six months.

Filters require backwashing when the pressure gauge reads eight to ten PSI from clean. The skimmer basket and lint pot in the pool pump should also be emptied out on a regular basis; clogged filters inhibit circulation and, if the problem becomes severe, can cause damage to your entire system.

Chemicals will last longer if added during the evening; the sun can reduce their potency and overall productivity span.

Regular maintenance, such as brushing walls and tiles, will help keep algae at bay, keep the pool clean, and prevent debris from hardening, which would make it harder to clean.

Pumps should be run one hour for every ten degrees, and missing drains and suctions sources should always be promptly replaced.

While this list may seem extensive, regular maintenance is essential in keeping your pool safe and preventing future problems. However, if the work required to keep up your pool ever seems too overwhelming, you can always hire a professional pool maintenance service to carry out regular maintenance for you.